The perceived factors that influence the decision to beneficiate coal in South Africa
Date
2012-09-10
Authors
Walker, Ryan John
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Abstract
Coal beneficiation is not a new concept and over the past few decades, numerous studies have been conducted on the subject. There is, however, little information available on the factors that influence the decision to beneficiate coal in South Africa.
This research report aimed to identify the factors that influence the decision to beneficiate coal in South Africa.
A qualitative methodology was used during the research process and the data was collected by means of face-to-face interviews with specialists from a specific mining house. The broad based research question led to open discussions that resulted in a comprehensive understanding of the issues and the identification of seven prominent factors that influence the decision to beneficiate coal.
The key findings from this research study are that, in addition to the five factors identified in the literature review, there are two further noticeable factors influencing the decision to beneficiate coal in South Africa which were not considered relevant three decades ago: these are environmental legislation and life extension of mines.
The key message from this research study is that mining companies need to consider all seven factors when deciding whether or not to beneficiate coal in South Africa.
Description
MBA thesis (WBS)
Keywords
Coal beneficiation